The historic city of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, witnessed an unparalleled spiritual gathering on the occasion of Makar Sankranti, as lakhs of devotees congregated at the Triveni Sangam to take the ceremonial ‘Amrit Snan’. This marked a significant milestone in the Maha Kumbh 2025, with the first major holy dip of the festival drawing pilgrims from all corners of the country and beyond.
The First ‘Amrit Snan’ of Maha Kumbh
On Monday, the festival commenced with the first ‘snan’ coinciding with Paush Purnima, attracting over 1.75 crore devotees. On Tuesday, the sacred waters at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers welcomed members of 13 akharas—Hindu monastic orders—for their inaugural ‘Amrit Snan’.
The ceremonial bath commenced at the auspicious Brahma Muhurat from 3 a.m., with chants of ‘Har Har Mahadev’, ‘Jai Shri Ram’, and ‘Jai Ganga Maiyya’ echoing across the ghats. The Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani and the Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara were among the first to participate, symbolizing the onset of divine blessings for all.
Celebrated annually on January 14, Makar Sankranti signifies the Sun’s transition into the zodiac sign Capricorn (Makara). This celestial movement marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days, symbolizing hope, prosperity, and renewal. Known as a harvest festival, Makar Sankranti holds immense cultural and spiritual significance, honoring the Sun God (Surya) and acknowledging his role as the life-giver.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended warm wishes to all participants, describing the event as a living embodiment of India’s eternal culture and faith. In a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter), he congratulated devotees for earning spiritual merit through the Amrit Snan, emphasizing the festival’s importance in fostering unity and devotion.
“This is the living form of our eternal culture and faith. Today on the auspicious occasion of the great festival of folk faith ‘Makar Sankranti’, congratulations to all the devotees who earned virtue by taking the first ‘Amrit Snan’ at the Triveni Sangam in Mahakumbh-2025, Prayagraj,” he shared.
The Sacred Ritual of Amrit Snan
Previously referred to as ‘Shahi Snan’, the ‘Amrit Snan’ represents a ceremonial holy dip performed by saints and devotees. It is believed to cleanse sins, bestow spiritual merit, and lead one closer to salvation. The MahaKumbh, held every 12 years, is considered the largest religious gathering in the world, attracting millions to partake in this sacred tradition.
Interestingly, seers have pointed out that the celestial configurations for MahaKumbh 2025 occur once every 144 years, further amplifying the event’s auspiciousness and spiritual significance.
A Historical and Divine Gathering
The MahaKumbh 2025 continues to serve as a testament to India’s rich spiritual heritage. Over the years, the festival has not only grown in scale but also in its ability to connect people from diverse backgrounds through shared faith. With meticulous planning and participation from saints, devotees, and the local administration, this year’s event is set to become a landmark in history.
The MahaKumbh 2025, marked by the ‘Amrit Snan’ on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti, underscores the timelessness of India’s cultural and spiritual ethos. The gathering of millions at the Triveni Sangam is not just a religious act but a celebration of unity, devotion, and the eternal hope of a better tomorrow.